NODULES and MASSES

A

B

C

things to consider when analyzing focal opacities in the lung:

SHAPE

MARGIN

SIZE

DENSITY

SHAPE - round

MARGIN - smooth

SIZE - 2.5 cm

DENSITY - central calcification

NOTE: any round lung opacity that is less than 3 cm in diameter can be called a 'NODULE'

SHAPE - round

MARGIN - smooth

SIZE - from 1 to 4 cm

DENSITY - soft tissue

NOTE: any round lung opacity that is more than 3 cm in diameter must be called a 'MASS'

SHAPE - irregular

MARGIN - spiculated

SIZE - 4 cm

DENSITY - soft tissue

NOTE: any spiculated lung opacity of amy size must be called a 'MASS'